Synopsis:
A strange little man helps the miller's daughter spin straw into gold for the king on the condition that she will give him her first-born child.

Discussion topics for before reading:

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How many of you have heard or read this story before?

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Have you ever bragged about being able to do something that you really couldn?t? What did you say and what happened?

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Have you ever promised something that you didn?t really want to do?

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What other fairy tales do you know?

Discussion topics for during/after reading:

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Discuss the meaning of a miller and spinning.

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Why does the miller brag about his daughter?

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Why does the miller?s daughter not tell the truth? What would you have done?

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What promises does the miller?s daughter make? Which one does she not want to keep?

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How does the miller?s daughter figure out the man?s name? What names would you have guessed?

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Is the miller?s daughter similar to other characters in fairy tales that you know? (For example, Beauty and the Beast)

Craft ideas:

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Make up a different name for yourself and write it on a sheet of paper. Decorate it like a place card or name tag.

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The miller?s daughter gave Rumpelstiltskin her jewelry in exchange for his help. Make your own jewelry from either paper or beads. Bring ahead option: string and beads.

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Draw a different cover for the book.

Special activities:

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Have pairs of students play hangman with each other using their made up names.

*Note: These craft ideas are just suggestions.
You can use them, but you dont have to use them.
You can expand upon them, or add your own twist.
Remember, though, that the focus of your time should
not be on the development and execution of a craft;
the focus should be on the read-aloud and the
enjoyment of the book!